What Is Herpetic Whitlow?
Reviewed: Dr. Gromatzky
2. Transmission
As mentioned, the herpes virus is a very contagious pathogen. All it takes to contract herpetic whitlow is for the skin to come into contact with the virus. This can be by way of contact with an infected person, or by contact with infected surfaces. It is not necessary for patients to have a history of herpes in order to develop herpetic whitlow.
Herpetic whitlow is often, however, a secondary infection from other herpes infections. Herpes typically causes sores around the mouth or on the genitals and touching these sores can cause the infection to spread to the finger. If the patient’s finger has even a small cut then the virus will be able to enter the body.
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